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Downhill Skiing

An original alpine discipline where skiers race downhill through marked gates.

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An Overview of Downhill Skiing

Downhill skiing, ski race for speed on an adjusted downhill course that is marked by gates formed by paired poles, set at least 8 metres (26 feet) apart, through which the racer must pass. Contestants make at least one timed practice run, then compete singly in an order set by previous performance and starting at one-minute intervals. The one who completes the course in the shortest time, without missing any gates, is the winner.

Benefits

  • Burns calories
  • Strengthens lower body muscles
  • Engages core muscles
  • Improves flexibility

Costs

A session usually costs around £15/20.

Involvement

Use local activity finders or try and identify if a local/regional facility offers this activity. It is also worth looking at the National Governing Body website for opportunities.

Adaptations and Equipment

Ski's, ski boots, ski suit.

All provided at clubs

Facts

Downhill debuted at the Olympics in a combined event (featuring both a downhill and a slalom race) in 1936 at Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. It was first held as an Olympic medal event in 1948 at St. Moritz, Switzerland.

Find Downhill Skiing Clubs/Groups Near You

Use the search below to find local organisations near you.

National Governing Bodies

Snowsport England

Contact Name
Claire / Gareth (Office)
Contact Email
info@snowsportengland.org.uk
Contact Telephone
01509 232323